Water hammer is the familiar loud “bang” or “hammering” sound that can happen in home plumbing systems when a faucet closes, a valve shifts, or a supply line experiences a sudden change in flow. The noise comes from pressure waves traveling through the pipes—an effect similar to what you’d feel if you abruptly stopped moving water in a moving pipe network.

Although it may seem like a minor annoyance, water hammer can indicate pressure and flow conditions that may gradually damage plumbing components. Understanding why it happens is the first step toward fixing it safely and preventing repeat incidents.

What causes water hammer

Water hammer typically occurs when moving water is forced to stop quickly. Common triggers include closing a faucet rapidly, turning off an appliance valve, flushing toilets, or cycling solenoid valves in dishwashers and washing machines. The faster the ... Read more »

At a glance, “storm drain” and “sanitary sewer” can look similar—both are pipes and grates that move water away from streets. But they are designed for different types of water, and sending the wrong kind of flow into the wrong system can lead to pollution, flooding, and costly repairs.

Storm drains are meant to carry rainfall and runoff—think water from storms, melted snow, and surface water that flows across streets, rooftops, and parking lots. Sanitary sewers are built to carry domestic and industrial wastewater from homes and businesses, such as toilet waste, sinks, showers, and certain regulated facility discharges.

What each system carries

Storm drainage systems typically move relatively “clean” (though often not truly clean) water to local streams, rivers, lakes, or other drainage outlets. The water can pick up pol ... Read more »

Illinois winters can bring sudden cold snaps that test even well-built homes. Winterizing plumbing is about reducing the risk of frozen pipes (which can burst) and preparing fixtures, valves, and outdoor water lines for freezing temperatures.

1) Check when freezing can reach your pipes

Begin by identifying where water lines run: along exterior walls, through unheated basements/crawl spaces, garages, attics, and any sections near vents or poorly insulated areas. Those are the most vulnerable spots during overnight dips and wind-driven cold.

2) Insulate first, then plug gaps

Use pipe insulation rated for cold weather, especially on exposed supply lines and any “runs” that travel through unheated spaces. Add insulation to elbows, valves, and pipe-to-wall transitions—these points often cool faster than straight runs.

After insulating, look for draf ... Read more »

Heat pumps are becoming a leading option for home heating across the U.S., and Chicago is no exception. With colder winters and a heating season that runs much of the year, the question for many residents is straightforward: does the investment pay off in Chicago’s specific climate—and under today’s utility rates and incentives?

For homeowners considering a switch from gas or older electric resistance systems, the best outcomes typically depend on sizing, insulation, and installation quality as much as the equipment itself. When those factors line up, heat pumps can provide efficient heating while reducing emissions tied to fossil-fuel combustion.

How heat pumps perform in Chicago winters

Modern cold-climate heat pumps are designed to deliver heat even when outdoor temperatures drop well below freezing. While their efficiency can decline during the coldest spells, many systems maintain workabl ... Read more »